Final answer:
The Ptolemaic or geocentric model, proposed by Ptolemy, places Earth at the universe's center, while the heliocentric or Copernican model, devised by Nicolaus Copernicus, positions the Sun at the center and is supported by later scientists' findings.
Step-by-step explanation:
- Geocentric system: a. Ptolemaic model b. Scientist who proposed model: Ptolemy
- Heliocentric system: a. Copernican model b. Scientist who proposed model: Nicolaus Copernicus
The geocentric system, also known as the Ptolemaic model, was proposed by the Greek philosopher Ptolemy in the second century AD. This model placed Earth at the center of the universe, with the Moon, planets, Sun, and stars revolving around it in complex superpositions of circular paths. It is a descriptive model that does not offer explanations for the causes of celestial motions and requires numerous adjustments to match celestial observations.
Opposing this view, Nicolaus Copernicus introduced the heliocentric system, also known as the Copernican model. This revolutionary model posits that the Sun is at the center of the solar system. Supported by observations and the analysis of Tycho Brahe, Johannes Kepler, and Galileo Galilei, the model was further reinforced by Newton's universal law of gravitation, providing a simpler and more accurate representation of the solar system and its planetary motions.